By Barbara Dreaver, 1 News Pacific correspondent
Over the years, many graphic and violent images of torture and beatings have emerged from the Indonesia-controlled Melanesian region of West Papua.
News agencies and social media groups across the world have reported the alleged human rights abuses of the island’s native population by Indonesian soldiers.
Yet, the international community continues to ignore the plight of the West Papuan people.
WATCH THE VIDEO: Human rights abuses in West Papua
I have covered the story of the West Papuan fight for independence from Indonesia for many years.
In this report, I explore the reasons why Indonesia clings tightly to power of the island and shuts the rest of the world out, denying access to the island and its people.
I also look at the close relationship New Zealand has with Indonesia, one our country’s strongest allies and trade partners.
This report is republished by Asia Pacific Report with the permission of Barbara Dreaver and Television New Zealand.
Reporter: Barbara Dreaver
Produced by: Natalia Sutherland
Edited by: Luis G. Portillo
